Desert G
Hi, i have just bought a 1980 W460 230GE manual box LWB in Cairo, Egypt, i have always been a big fan and this is my first time, the car is all there but needs minor body work and a fresh coat of paint.
The gentleman i bought the car from has bought a 280GE auto RHD SWB from Germany i believe, so am doing a heart transplant for the 280 and its box into my 230 including all suspension, front and rear differential and center console.
I am really intrigued to find out how the G would deal with the sand dunes when the time comes for that test!! we don't have many of them out here (mainly Land cruisers, Jeeps or Land rovers) so i never saw one in action.
wish me luck people.
PS loads RHD parts will be available incl. dash, steering box etc etc drop me a line if you need any.
welcome and good luck with the work, if you come across problems post them on the site as there should be someone who has come across the same problem before you and may be able to offer advice :idea:
You'll find the 280 plenty capable in the sand, but your driving technique might need slight adjustment from lighter Japanese cars. As Clarkson(?) says, momentum, momentum...etc.
In my honest opinion sand is the one thing G's don't like. The 230 would 100% for sure be to light, but the 280 will be ok, at least as good as a Landy.
The Japanese cars will always be better on the dunes, but if you go for a trip and load the cars, you will start outperforming them.
I wouldn't try to teach you to drive in the sand, but if it is a auto, drive it like a manual.
I have done loads in a 230 and can send you loads of pic's, just let me know.
Hey Leeu,
Thanx for the warning man, i will be taking my time for sure around this baby, if not with 280 then i guess i'll have to dig out a 320 or something ;o)
Best
P.S please send them pix when ever you can.
300 petrol engine is the simplest, and best for your car for driving dunes. Then those Toyota's can come. Also forget what people say about tyre size on your rims, fit 285's and run them low. I have never had sand going into the rim and I drive at 0.8bar on sand.
The 300 engine will go straight into your car and ideally stick to the auto.
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Cheers prwales, i checked you guys out and i like very much the overwhelming Q & A.
I'll surely need your help sooner or later.
Cheers